SOMO Deputy Director Calls for U.S. Energy Giants to Return to Iraq

In his interview with Pulse Media, SOMO Deputy Director Hamdi Shingali speaks candidly about the future of American energy companies in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, reflecting on his experience as a dual Iraqi–U.S. citizen.

Shingali expresses disappointment that major U.S. firms withdrew from Iraq after years of involvement, stressing that the United States played a crucial role in 2003 and should remain an active economic partner.

He highlights the recent return of ExxonMobil and Chevron as a positive signal and urges more American companies to re-enter the Iraqi market, arguing that their presence strengthens economic stability, boosts political confidence, and brings higher transparency and adherence to the rule of law.

According to Shingali, Iraqis welcome U.S. companies because they “go by the book,” reducing corruption and reinforcing trust across the energy sector.